The Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority will coordinate its Gift of Life presentations on May 22 and May 30.
The Gift of Life is an annual demonstration at local high schools designed to increase teenage awareness of the dangers of drinking and driving, according to a Kent Fire Department media release. It involves a simulated car crash of teenagers who have just left a high school graduation party where alcohol was available. Student actors play the parts of the victims and witnesses.
In order to increase the realism of the presentation, the Kent Police Department, King County Medic One, and Tri-Med Ambulance also participate. The simulation is conducted similarly to an actual crash scene with firefighters performing an extrication of victims and treatment of the injured. One of the teens, who plays the part of the drunk driver, will be “arrested” following a field sobriety test conducted by a police officer. The program is graphic and is intended to show teens the reality of a serious crash and what takes place.
The crash simulation is followed by a school assembly where guest speakers discuss drinking and driving and the consequences of making poor decisions.
The Gift of Life is scheduled each spring to coincide with proms and graduation. It is intended to help students understand that making bad decisions can lead to life changing or ending events. The Kent Fire Department has been conducting the Gift of Life program for more than 20 years.
Residents are welcome to attend the events.
This year’s presentations:
• Wednesday, May 22
Kentridge High School
12430 SE 208 Street
Noon – 2:30 pm
• Thursday, May 30
Kent Meridian High School
10020 SE 256 Street
Noon – 2:10 pm
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